As renewable energy demand surges, “community solar” providers are popping up around the U.S. They're an alternative for many people who can’t afford their own rooftop panels.
Bishop Richard Howell poses Aug. 19, 2021 beside some of the 630 solar panels on the roof of Shiloh Temple International Ministries in Minneapolis The church is one of many "community solar" providers popping up around the U.S. as surging demand for renewable energy inspires new approaches. Aug. 19, 2021, in Minneapolis.
Larger than home rooftop systems but smaller than utility-scale complexes, they’re located atop buildings, or on abandoned factory grounds and farms. Individuals or companies subscribe to portions of energy sent to the grid and get credits that reduce their electricity bills.The model attracts people who can’t afford rooftop installations or live where solar is not accessible, such as renters and owners of dwellings without direct sunlight.Nearly 1.
But power regulation happens at the state level, where interest groups are fighting over what defines community solar and who should generate it.The Solar Energy Industries Association says the label should apply only where private developers and nonprofit cooperatives, not just utilities, can operate solar gardens and send power to the grid. The association says 19 states and Washington, D.C., have such policies.
“You’re generating your own power and saving a little money,” said Dent, who helped install several complexes built by Cooperative Energy Futures, a local nonprofit. Although conflicted about taking six acres out of production, farmer Gerald Bauer supports the climate cause and says lease payments of $1,200 per acre make community solar a financial winner.
But community solar developers are hitting a roadblock: Under state law, residents and businesses can subscribe to facilities only in their county or an adjacent one. But Xcel says that contradicts a basic community solar principle: producing energy close to where it’s used.
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